Side to side machine

ABSTRACT

A side to side machine provides training for muscles and body structures using lateral motion. The side to side machine may comprise one or more inclined platforms which each support a step. The steps may be connected to synchronize their movement. The user may lower a first step to raise the other step. The user may then lower the raised step to raise the first step. This may be repeated to complete a user&#39;s training. The incline of the platforms may be adjusted as the user is training to strengthen and tone various of the user&#39;s leg and other muscles. In addition, the resistance to moving the steps may be adjusted as desired. A control system may be included to control the incline of the platforms and other operations of the side to side machine.

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No.61/374,790 filed on Aug. 18, 2010.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The invention relates to athletic training equipment and machines,particularly to a side to side machine and method therefor.

2. Related Art

In sports, the ability to move quickly and athletically is highlyvalued. This ability allows competitors to score and defend theirrespective goals efficiently and effectively. The ability to move in anydirection faster than an opponent provides a great advantage.

Traditionally, training has focused on increasing the speed and strengthavailable to move an athlete forward. However, as is known, an opponentand the ball may move in any direction and the athlete must be ready tohandle such an occurrence the moment it occurs.

Moving in a direction other than forward utilizes distinct musclemovements and body movements. Traditional training apparatus and methodsmay be used to increase the speed and agility of these forwardmovements. Other apparatus typically have a broad training focus whichdoes not provide the desired results for lateral movement even withsubstantial training. In addition, given the broad focus, the risk ofinjury may be higher than necessary for particular exercises.

From the discussion that follows, it will become apparent that thepresent invention addresses the deficiencies associated with the priorart while providing numerous additional advantages and benefits notcontemplated or possible with prior art constructions.

PATENT SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A side to side machine is disclosed herein. The side to side machineprovides highly effective training for the muscles and body structuresused in making lateral motions. Such motions are highly beneficial inathletic activities. The training provided by the side to side motionincreases the speed and strength with which lateral motions may be made.In addition, the side to side machine guides a user's movements duringtraining to increase safety and reduce the risk of injury. The side toside machine may also vary the particular motions made by the userduring training by adjusting an incline of the machine's platforms. Thishelps ensure various muscles and body structures undergo strengtheningand toning when training.

The side to side machine may have a variety of configurations. Forexample, in one embodiment, the side to side machine may comprise twoplatforms having a proximal end and a distal end in relation to a pivotat the proximal end of the two platforms. The pivot may be connected tothe two platforms to allow the two platforms to rotate relative to oneanother. An elevator may be attached to the pivot, and be configured toraise and lower the pivot to incline the two platforms varying amounts.A step may be mounted to each of the two platforms and configured tomove or slide between the proximal end and the distal end of each of thetwo platforms. A connecting member may extend between the two steps. Theconnecting member such as a cable may pull one of the two steps upwardwhen the other of the two steps is lowered.

Other systems, methods, features and advantages of the invention will beor will become apparent to one with skill in the art upon examination ofthe following figures and detailed description. It is intended that allsuch additional systems, methods, features and advantages be includedwithin this description, be within the scope of the invention, and beprotected by the accompanying claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The components in the figures are not necessarily to scale, emphasisinstead being placed upon illustrating the principles of the invention.In the figures, like reference numerals designate corresponding partsthroughout the different views.

FIG. 1A is a front view of an exemplary side to side machine;

FIG. 1B is a perspective view of an exemplary side to side machine;

FIGS. 2A-2B are front views illustrating an exemplary elevator of a sideto side machine in operation;

FIGS. 3A-3B are front views illustrating an exemplary elevator of a sideto side machine in operation;

FIGS. 4A-4B are front views illustrating an exemplary track of a side toside machine in operation;

FIGS. 5A-5C are front views illustrating exemplary steps of a side toside machine in operation;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary pulley of aconnecting member of a side to side machine;

FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary control system of aside to side machine; and

FIGS. 8A-8E are front views illustrating a user performing exemplaryside to side training on a side to side machine.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth inorder to provide a more thorough description of the present invention.It will be apparent, however, to one skilled in the art, that thepresent invention may be practiced without these specific details. Inother instances, well-known features have not been described in detailso as not to obscure the invention.

In general, the side to side machine provides focused training toincrease a user's speed, strength, and agility when making lateralmovements. For instance, a user may train his or her leg muscles as wellas core muscles to improve his or her lateral movement and control.

Such improvement is highly advantageous in athletic activities. Forexample, many sports require speed and agility in a forward direction,but also in a lateral direction such as when going on the offensive orwhen defending a goal or point. This is generally because a player mustmatch the somewhat unpredictable movement of a hall or other playersparticipating in the activity. For instance, a player may desire tosuddenly stop, change direction, or start moving in a particulardirection. Tennis is a prime example of a sport requiring such lateralor side to side motion. As will become apparent from the discussionbelow, the training provided by the side to side machine builds themuscle and body structures needed to make such movements with increasedspeed, strength, and agility.

The side to side machine will now be described with regard to FIGS.1A-1B. FIG. 1A illustrates a front view of the side to side machine,while FIG. 1B illustrates a perspective view of the side to sidemachine. In one or more embodiments, the side to side machine maycomprise a first platform 104A and a second platform 104B. The platforms104A, 104B may provide a structure which supports a step 112 that maymove along the length of the platforms.

FIG. 1B provides a view of the first platform 104A that illustrates thissupport. As can be seen, the platform 104A may comprise a frame to whichvarious elements of the platform are mounted. To support a step 112Athat may move or slide along the length of the platform 104A theplatform may include one or more tracks, rails, guides, or the like. Forexample, the step 112A may have one or more wheels or bearings thatengage the platform 104A and allow the step to move along the length ofthe platform. It is contemplated that the coupling between the wheelsand track (or similar) may prevent the step 112A from moving in otherthan a linear direction.

It is contemplated that various other structures or devices may be usedto support the step 112A on the platform 104A in a movable or slidablefashion. For example, step 112A or platform 104A may comprise matingchannels and protrusions. The channels or protrusions may run along thelength of the platform 104A to cause the step 112A to guide the movementof the step such that it is along the length of the platform. Thesurfaces of the step 112A and/or platform 104A may be made from orcoated with a friction reducing material so as to allow the step to movefreely. Examples include nylon, graphite, petroleum, or syntheticlubricants or surfaces.

As can be seen from the embodiment of FIG. 1B, the platform 104A maycomprise one or more rails 148 upon which the step 112A may move. Therails 148 may be aligned along an axis of the platform 104A. In thismanner, the step 112A may move along the length of the platform 104Aguided by the rails 148.

The rails 148 may have various configurations. In one or moreembodiments, the rails 148 may have an elongated structure so as to spanfrom one side or section of the frame 104A to another. The rails 148 mayhave various cross-sectional shapes. For instance, in FIG. 1B, the railshave a circular cross-section. It is contemplated that various othershapes may be used. For example, the rails 148 may have a rectangular,square, polygonal, or curved shape, or a combination thereof. It isnoted that some shapes, such as rectangular, polygonal, or squareshapes, may prevent the step 112A from rotating about a rail 148 becausethey are non-circular.

The platforms 104A, 104B of a side to side machine may be similarly oridentically configured in one or more embodiments. However, it iscontemplated that the platforms 104A, 104B may be distinctly configuredin some embodiments. For example, in one embodiment, the platforms 104A,104B may comprise different frames and/or distinct sliding mounts.

Though the side to side machine will typically have multiple platforms,it is contemplated that in some embodiments, the side to side machinemay have only one platform 104A. Though a user may only train one sideof his or her body at a time, the single platform 104A may reducematerial utilization, space requirements, and cost. The user may rotatehis or her body to train both sides of the body.

In one or more embodiments, the platforms 104A, 104B may be elevatedsuch as to form an incline. Typically, the platforms 104A, 104B will beinclined such that they form a peak, such as shown in FIGS. 1A-1B. Thesteps 112A, 112B may move or slide along the incline provided by theplatforms 104A, 104B to produce the beneficial side to side training.The platforms 104A, 104B may be inclined by an elevating assembly thatmay be configured in a variety of ways. For example, in one embodimentthe elevating assembly may comprise a support member or other structurethat elevates a proximal end of the platforms 104A, 104B to create theincline described herein.

In one or more embodiments, the elevating assembly may be adjustable.For example, the elevating assembly may be configured to raise and/orlower the ends of the platforms 104A, 104B so as to produce inclines ofvarying angles. To illustrate, in FIGS. 1A-1B, the elevating assemblycomprises an elevator 120 that may be used to support the platforms104A, 104B at a particular position, and to adjust the inclines of theplatforms. The elevator 120 may be manually powered or may be powered bya motor 116. For instance, as shown, a motor 116 may be coupled to theelevator 120 power or move the elevator.

As will be described further below, the elevator 120 may raise and loweran end of each platform 104A, 104B to produce the desired incline.Typically, the elevator 120 may raise the proximal end of each platform104A, 104B (though it is contemplated that one or more elevators may beat the distal end of a platform in some embodiments). The elevator 120may adjust the incline for multiple platforms 104A, 104B simultaneously.For example, the elevator 120 may be connected to the ends of multipleplatforms 104A, 104B to raise and lower the platforms simultaneously. Itis contemplated that the platforms 104A, 104B may each have their ownelevator 120 in some embodiments, and that individual platforms may beraised and lowered independent of other platforms. The platforms 104A,104B may have rollers 144 in some embodiments, to reduce frictionbetween the other end of the platforms and the floor or a base plate(not shown) when the incline of the platforms is changed.

It is noted that the side to side machine may have a base 128 thatstabilizes or plants the side to side machine to the floor. The base 128may be secured to the floor by one or more fasteners in someembodiments. Alternatively in addition, the base 128 may have a sizeand/or weight which holds the side to side machine in position before,during, or after the platforms 104A, 104B have moved. This is beneficialsince the distal ends of the platforms 104A, 104B are configured to bemovable, and may even include rollers 144 in some embodiments.

Various elements of the side to side machine may be attached to the base128, such as to securely fasten or attach these elements to the side toside machine. For example, the elevator 120 may be attached to the base,such as shown. In this manner, the base 128 holds the side to sidemachine in position at least in part through the connection with theelevator 120. It is noted that the pivot 108 may be attached to the base128 as well, such as by one or more support members or structures. Thesupport members or structures may articulate, extend, and/or contract tomaintain a connection with the pivot 108 as the pivot 108 may be movedto adjust the incline of the platforms 104A, 104B. The hand holds 140,support riser, or other user stabilizing structure may also oralternatively be attached to the base 128.

Platforms 104A, 104B may be connected by a pivoting joint in one or moreembodiments. For example, as shown, the platforms 104A, 104B areconnected by a pivot 108. This allows each platform 104A, 104B to rotaterelative to the other platform and permits the incline to be adjusted.It is contemplated that the elevator 120 may be connected to the pivot108. In this manner, the incline may be adjusted by the elevator 120raising or lowering the pivot 108. The elevator 120 may support thepivot 108, which in turn supports the platforms 104A, 104B, in suchembodiments.

The platforms 104A, 104B may also be connected with one or moreresilient members 124, such as a spring, elastic band, or the like. Ingeneral, the resilient members 124 are configured to pull the platforms104A, 104B together. In this manner, they assist the elevator 120 whenthe elevator is increasing the incline of the platforms 104A, 104B. Theresilient members 124 may extend between the platforms 104A, 104B, ormay extend from a platform to another portion of the side to sidemachine. For instance, as shown, the resilient members 124 extend fromthe platforms 104A, 104B to the elevator 120. In this manner, theresilient members help stabilize or secure the elevator 120 relative tothe platforms 104A, 104B.

The side to side machine may, but need not, also include user engageablefeatures. For example, the side to side machine may comprise one or moreelements that help stabilize a user. FIGS. 1A-1B illustrate an exampleof such elements. As shown, the side to side machine may include one ormore hand holds 140. The user may grasp the hand holds 140 to stabilizehim or herself during training. The hand holds 140 may be mounted to asupport in one or more embodiments. The support may position the handholds 140 at a location that is convenient for the user to grasp thehand holds. For instance, as shown, the hand holds 140 are positionednear waistheight. The support may have various configurations thatposition the hand holds 140 where they may be grasped during training.As shown, the support comprises an upward extending member 132 or riserand a horizontal extension 136. The upward extending member 132 raisesthe position of the hand holds 140 while the horizontal extensionpositions the hand holds 140 at the sides of the user. It is noted thatthe hand holds 140 may be adjustable in both a horizontal and verticaldirection in some embodiments.

It is contemplated that the user may lean against a portion of thesupport in addition to or instead of grasping the hand holds 140. Assuch, in some embodiments, hand holds 140 need not be included. It isalso contemplated that the support and/or hand holds 140 may be at thefront or back of the side to side machine. In this manner, the user maygrasp the hand holds 140 or be supported at the front or back of themachine.

The side to side machine may comprise one or more interactive elementsas well. For example, one or more user inputs and an associated controlsystem may be provided to allow the user to control features or theoperation of the side to side machine. In addition, the side to sidemachine may have one or more audio or visual outputs to presentinformation to a user. For example, information regarding the operationor configuration of the side to side machine may be presented via anaudible or visual output. Though shown at a particular location, it isnoted that the control system, inputs, and outputs may be at variouslocations. Typically, the inputs and outputs will be positioned so as tobe conveniently accessed and viewed by the user during training, such asshown in FIGS. 1A-1B.

The elevating assembly of the side to side machine will now be furtherdescribed with regard to FIGS. 2A-2B. As stated, the elevating assemblymay comprise an elevator 120 used to adjust the incline of the platforms104A, 104B. It is noted that various devices capable of raising andlowering an end of the platforms 104A, 104B may be used as an elevator120. It is contemplated that the elevator 120 may have sufficientcapacity to raise and lower the end of the platforms 104A, 104B and theuser's weight. In this manner, the incline may be adjusted while theuser is on or using the side to side machine.

An exemplary elevator 120 is shown in operation in FIGS. 2A-2B. In FIG.2A, the elevator 120 is at a lowered position while in FIG. 2B, theelevator 120 is in a raised position. As can be seen, the raisedposition creates a steeper incline at the platforms 104A, 104B. Theelevator 120 may comprise one or more arms 204 that may bend whenadjusting the incline. For instance, it can be seen from the figuresthat the arms 204 extend to raise the platforms 104A, 104B and flex orbend to lower the platforms. The arms 204 may comprise a hinge orpivoting joint 208 to permit such extension and flexing.

As can be seen from FIGS. 2A-2B, the pivoting joints 208, if movedcloser together, cause the arms 204 to extend thus raising the platforms104A, 104B. When the pivoting joints 208 are moved apart, the arms 204flex thus lowering the platforms 104A, 104B. It is contemplated that avariety of devices may be used to move the joints 208 towards or awayfrom one another. In addition or alternatively, the force of gravity maybe harnessed to move the joints 208 apart. For instance, it can be seenthat a downward force (such as the weight of the platforms 104A, 104Band/or a user) may press down on the arms 204 causing them to flex thuslowering the platforms.

In one embodiment, a clamp may move the joints 208 of the arms 204. Forexample, closing the articulating “jaws” or articulating portions of aclamp around the joints 208 may move the joints closer together. Theclamp may be closed until the desired incline is achieved. The clamp maythen be left in this position to secure the platforms 104A, 104B at thedesired incline. In this manner, the clamp works against the force ofgravity and holds the joints 208 in position thus keeping the platforms104A, 104B in position as well. Opening the clamp allows the joints 208to move away from one another thus allowing the arms to flex and theincline to be decreased (i.e., the platforms 104A, 104B to be lowered).

The clamp may have various configurations. For example, rather thanpressing in on the joints 208 to move the joints closer together, theclamp may pull in the joints closer together, such as by connecting thearticulating jaws or portions of the clamp to an inside portion of thejoints 208 (i.e., the side of the joints that face each other).

In one embodiment, the articulating portions may be at the joints 208.To illustrate, in FIGS. 2A-2B, a threaded member or rod 212 spans thedistance between the joints 208. The arms 204 may each have a threadedopening so that the arms may accept the threaded rod 212. In thismanner, turning the threaded rod 212 causes the arms to extend as thethreaded openings of the arms 204 move along the length of the threadedrod as the rod is rotated. Turning in a first direction may cause thearms 204 to retract while turning in a second direction may cause thearms to extend. Each of the arms 204 may have threaded openings thatcomprise threads going in opposite directions to accomplish this.Alternatively, one side of the threaded rod 212 may have threads in afirst direction, while the other side has threads in an oppositedirection.

It is contemplated that the threaded opening of each arm 204 may be atthe joints 208 so as to secure the threaded rod 212 between the jointssuch as shown in FIGS. 2A-2B. Alternatively, the threaded opening may beat another location of each arm 204. In addition, in some embodiments,each arm 204 may have multiple threaded openings so that multiplethreaded rods 212 (or clamps) may be secured to the arms. This spreadsthe amount of force that each threaded rod 212 must provide to extend,hold, and flex the arms 204.

An elevator 120 may be powered by hand or manually in some embodiments.For example a clamp or portion thereof may be turned by a crank or thelike to move its articulating portions to flex or extend the arms 204.It is contemplated that the movement of the steps 112A, 112B may powerthe elevator 120 of some configurations. For example, moving a step112A, 112B may rotate a gear or the like which in turn raises or lowersthe elevator 120 and/or platforms 104A, 104B. Alternatively, moving astep 112A, 112B may turn an electrical generator that powers theelevator 120.

Typically however, the elevator 120 will be motorized. In suchembodiments, an electrical or other motor 116 may be used to raise orlower the platforms 104A, 104B. For example, a motor 116 may be coupledto a clamp to power the clamp's articulating portions to extend the arms204. The motor 116 may be stopped when the desired extension isachieved. When stopped, the motor 116 may hold the arms 204 in theircurrent position, thus securing the platforms 104A, 104B at theircurrent incline. The motor may also power the articulating portions inan opposite direction to flex the arms 204 or to allow gravity to flexthe arms.

In one embodiment, the motor 116 may be coupled to and turn a threadedrod 212 to extend and contract the arms. For example, the motor 116 mayturn the threaded rod 212 in one direction to extend the arms and turnthe threaded rod in an opposite direction to flex the arms. This in turnadjusts the incline of the platforms 104A, 104B. Once the desiredincline is reached, the motor 116 may be stopped. As stated above, oncestopped, the arms 204 may be held in position thus securing theplatforms 104A, 104B at the desired incline. It is noted that the motor116 may be directly coupled to a clamp or threaded rod 212, or may becoupled via a transmission mechanism, such as one comprising one or moregears, transfer rods, or the like.

As can be seen, the side to side machine may provide a variety ofinclines via its elevator 120. A user may secure the platforms 104A,104B at a particular incline and utilize the side to side machine inthis configuration. The user may also utilize the side to side machineat automatically variable inclines as well. For example, it iscontemplated that the elevator 120 may continuously or periodicallyalter the inclines as the user is training. To illustrate, the elevator120 may continuously move between a raised and lowered position, such asshown in FIGS. 2B and 2A, respectively. Alternatively, the elevator 120may move to various positions randomly at periodic or random timeintervals. For instance, the elevator may 120 move to a first positionand hold the platforms 104A, 140B at that position for a period of time.The elevator 120 may then move to a second position (higher or lowerthan the first position) and hold that position for a period of time. Inthe meantime, the user is experiencing varying amounts of incline tovary his or her side to side training.

It is noted that the user may set the desired minimum and maximumincline if desired, such as by providing input to the control system.Alternatively, the incline may repeatedly change between the minimum andmaximum inclines that the side to side machine is capable of. In someembodiments, the control system may provide one or more sets of defaultminimum and maximum inclines.

As stated an elevating assembly may comprise various elevators 120.FIGS. 3A-3B illustrate another exemplary elevator 120 comprising anactuator. As can be seen, in an actuator configuration, the elevator 120may comprise a body 304 and a piston 308 that may extend from andretract into the body. As can also be seen, the elevator 120 may beoriented such that extending the piston 308 raises the platforms 104A,104B, and retracting the piston lowers the platforms. It is contemplatedthat a transfer mechanism, such as one or more levers, connecting rods,or the like may connect the piston 308 to the platforms 104A, 104B. Insuch embodiments, the elevator 120 need not be positioned vertically maybe positioned at various angles or other orientations.

An actuator-type elevator 120 may be powered in various ways. Forexample, the elevator 120 may be pneumatic, hydraulic, or electricallypowered. The elevator 120 may be activated to move its piston 208 to alowered position such as shown in FIG. 3A, and/or to a raised positionsuch as shown in FIG. 3B. As discussed above, the elevator 120 (in thiscase the piston 308) may be held or stopped at various positions toprovide the desired incline for the platforms 104A, 104B.

As can be seen from FIGS. 2A-2B and FIGS. 3A-3B, the platforms 104A,104B comprise rollers 144 that allow the distal ends of the platforms tomore easily move along the floor. This reduces the friction between thedistal ends of the platforms 104A, 104B and the floor and allows theincline to be adjusted much more easily. The rollers 144 may be wheelsor various other spherical or cylindrical structures configured to allowthe distal ends of the platforms 104A, 104B to roll along the floor.

It is contemplated that the side to side machine may have variouselements that allow the distal ends of the platforms 104A, 104B to moveeasily. For example, in addition to or instead of rollers or wheels, theplatforms 104A, 104B may have a low friction material at their distalends so as to allow the distal ends to slide easily along the floor. Inaddition, in one embodiment, the side to side machine may comprise oneor more tracks upon which the platforms 104A, 104B may move.

FIGS. 4A-4B illustrate an exemplary embodiment utilizing a track 404. Ascan be seen, the track 404 may span a particular length. The length ofthe track 404 may define to what extend the incline of the platforms104A, 104B may be lowered. This is because the distal ends of theplatforms 104A, 104B may be configured not to extend beyond the end ofthe track 404. It is contemplated that track 404 may have one or morestops or blockages which prevent the distal ends from moving too closeto one another in some embodiments.

In general, the track 404 may be configured to engage the distal ends ofthe platforms 104A, 104B and to provide a structure at which the distalends may easily move when the incline of the platforms is adjusted. Forexample, the track 404 may be a channel, rail or the like which engagesone or more roller 144 or the like of the platforms 104A, 104B. Therollers 144 may roll along the track as the incline of the platforms104A, 104B is adjusted. The distal ends of the platforms 104A, 104B mayroll or more along the track towards one another to increase the inclineof the platforms, such as shown in FIG. 3B. The distal ends may moveaway from one another to reduce the incline of the platforms 104A, 104Bsuch as shown in FIG. 3A.

The track 404 may guide the movement of the distal ends, such as byproviding a channel or rail for the rollers 144 at the distal ends. Inaddition, the track 404 protects the floor from wear caused by movingthe distal ends of the platforms 104A, 104B. It is contemplated thatmultiple tracks 404 may be used in some embodiments. For example, atrack may be used for each platform 104A, 104B individually such as byextending at one side of the side to side machine. In addition oralternatively, a track may be used for pairs of rollers 144 betweenplatforms 104A, 104B, such as shown in FIGS. 4A-4B.

The elevators 120 described above may be used in embodiments having atrack 404. Alternatively or in addition, the track 404 may incorporatean elevating assembly and/or elevator 120. For example, rather thanraising and lowering the platforms 104A, 104B at a pivot 108, force maybe applied at the distal ends of the platforms to raise and lower theplatforms. To illustrate, a roller 144 may be motorized to move thedistal end of a platform, or the track 404 itself may be motorized suchas with blocks (or other structures) that may engage and move the distalends of the platforms along the track. It is contemplated that one ormore threaded rods may extend between the platforms 104A, 104B and pullor push the platforms closer together or further apart (respectively)via threaded openings in the platforms. The threaded rods may be rotatedby a motor to motorize the adjustment of the platforms' incline. Thethreaded rods may be within the track 404 in some embodiments. In otherembodiments, the threaded rods may be above or outside of the track 404.

Where the track 404 moves the platforms 104A, 104B, it is contemplatedthat an extending/retracting support may be used to guide the pivot 108as the incline is adjusted. This helps ensure that the platforms 104A,104B move upward in a substantially vertical direction without movinglaterally. For example, a vertical extending/retracting support mayextend from the base 128 to the pivot 108 to help keep the platforms104A, 104B in alignment as their incline is adjusted.

As stated above, the side to side machine may include steps 112A, 112Bwhich the user may move along the incline of the platforms 104A, 104B totrain his or her body. FIGS. 5A-5C illustrate an exemplary configurationof such steps 112A, 112B and their operation. As can be seen, the steps112A, 112B may extend outward from each platform 104A, 104B to engage auser's feet. It is contemplated that the steps 112A, 112B may have atextured surface or coating to increase friction/traction between theuser's feet and the steps. This helps ensure the steps 112A, 112B movewith the user's feet and that the user does not slide off a step.

Referring back to FIG. 1B, it can be seen that the steps 112A, 112B maymove or slide along one or more rails 148. In addition, the steps 112A,112B may be connected by a connecting member 152 so as to synchronizethe movement of the steps. In FIG. 1B for example, the connecting member152 may be a flexible member such as a cable, which connects the steps112A, 112B. In this manner, the movement of a first step 112A outward(towards the distal end of a platform 104A) may pull the second step112B inward, and vice versa. Because the user need only stand on thesteps 112A, 112B, this connection permits the user to raise a step bypressing down or lowering the other step. This allows training tocontinue in a repeating raising/lowering cycle for each of the steps112A, 112B.

It is contemplated that the steps 112A, 112B may have retentionmechanisms to hold a user's foot, such as one or more foot straps, footbindings, or the like. In such embodiments, the steps 112A, 112B mayraise as the user's foot moves upward. It is also contemplated that aresilient member, such as a spring or an elastic band, may be attachedto the steps 112A, 112B. The resilient member may be configured toprovide a force which raises the steps 112A, 112B. For example, theresilient member may be attached between a step 112A and the pivot 108or a portion of the side to side machine adjacent the pivot.Alternatively or in addition, a spring or other biasing device may pusha step 112A upward. For example, one or more springs may be wrappedaround one or more rails 148 in some embodiments. To this manner, thesprings may push the step 112A upward. In such an embodiment, the steps112A, 112B raise themselves (via the resilient members/springs) topermit the repeating raising/lowering cycle for training on the side toside machine. The connecting member 152 may not be required in suchembodiments and as such may not be provided with the side to sidemachine.

Referring to FIGS. 5A-5C, it can be seen how the steps 112A, 112B maymove in a synchronized fashion when in use. In FIG. 5A, the first step112A is at a raised position, while the second step 112B is at a Loweredposition. In FIG. 5B, it can be seen that as the first step 112A ismoved or pushed downward, the second step 112B moves upward. This may becaused at least in part by the connecting member 152 pulling the secondstep 112B upward as the first step 112A is moved. In embodiments withoutconnecting members 152, the second step 112B may move upward as the usershifts his or her weight to the first step 112A to push the first stepdownward. As the first step 112A reaches the lowered position, thesecond step 112B moves to the raised position, such as shown in FIG. 5C.

Once in a raised position, the second step 112B may be moved downward.The first step 112B may move upward as the second step 112B movesdownward, continuing the raising/lowering cycle of side to side trainingon the side to side machine. It is contemplated that the user may movethe steps 112A, 112B to various extents along the length of theplatforms 104A, 104B before the direction of movement of the steps mustbe reversed. Alternatively, the user may move the steps 112A, 112B to amaximum or minimum extent (i.e., until the steps can no longer move anyfurther) before their direction of movement must be reversed. It iscontemplated that the side to side machine may comprise one or moreadjustable blocks or pins which allow a user to adjustably set thesemaximums and minimums. For example, a user may insert a pin, rod, or thelike to set a maximum or minimum extent of each step 112A, 112B.

Further details regarding the steps 112A, 112B will now be describedwith regard to FIG. 5A. As can be seen, a step 112A may be supported ina substantially horizontal orientation by a sliding mount 512. It iscontemplated that the orientation of the step 112A need not behorizontal and may be angled upward or downward such as to provide adifferent angle for the user's foot to engage the step. The angle ororientation of the step 112A may be adjustable according to a user'spreferences. For example, angling the distal end of the step 112A upwardmay increase comfort for some users during training. It is noted thateach step 112A, 112B may be angled independently. The sliding mount 512may include one or more pivots, joints, or the like to allow the step112A to be angled as desired. Alternatively, the structure of thesliding mount 512 may be configured to provide such angle.

The sliding mount 512 may comprise a sleeve 520 in one or moreembodiments. The sleeve 520 may engage a rail 148 of a platform 104A.For instance, the sleeve 520 may surround all or a portion of the rail148. In this manner, the sleeve 520 and thus the sliding mount 512 maymove along the rail 148. Accordingly, the step 112A also moves along therail 148. The resistance between the sleeve 520 and the rail 148 may beadjusted to make it easier or more difficult to move the step 112A inone or more embodiments. For example, a sleeve 520 having a narroweropening may provide increased resistance.

It is contemplated that various tracks, rails 148, channels, or guidesmay be used to allow the sliding mount 512 to move along the length of aplatform 104A. For instance, rather than a sleeve 520, the sliding mountmay comprise one or more rollers or wheels which rollably engage with atrack, rail 148, channel, or guide of a platform 104A. The rollingresistance of the rollers or wheels may be adjusted to provideresistance to the movement of a step 112A. It is also contemplated thatthe tracks, rails, channels, or guides may be connected to the step 112Aand that the sleeve 520, roller, or wheel may be provided by theplatform 104A in some embodiments.

A step 112A may be attached to the sleeve 520 or the like of the slidingmount 512. Alternatively or in addition, the sliding mount may compriseone or more supports which extend from the sleeve 520 to provide supportto the step 112A. These supports may help hold the step 112A in asubstantially horizontal orientation or at various angles. As can beseen in FIG. 5A for example, the sleeve 520 has a support extend upwardtherefrom to support the step 112A in a substantially horizontalorientation. This support may be configured to bend, extend, and/orretract so as to allow the orientation of the step 112A to be changed insome embodiments.

A step 112A may also be configured to extend and retract in one or moreembodiments. For example, the step 112A may be mounted to the slidingmount 512 via one or more internal supports 504. The step 112A may beconfigured to move along the length of the internal supports 504. Inthis manner, the step 112A may be extended outward or retracted inwardabout an internal support 504. It is contemplated that the step 112A maybe locked in a desired (extended or retracted) position by a pin 508,rod, clip, clamp, screw, or other fastener in one or more embodiments.For example, the internal supports 504 may have one or more openings.The user may lock the step 112A in position by inserting a pin 508through an opening in the step and into one of the openings of itsinternal support 504. The pin 508 may be removed to allow the step to bemoved again. A handle 516 may be provided to allow a user to easilygrasp and extend/retract the step 112A.

The step 112A may have various configurations which allow it to extendand retract about an internal support 504. For instance, the step 112Amay comprise one or more cavities which accept an internal support 504.In this manner, the step 112A may “slide” or move along the internalsupports 504. It is contemplated that a stop or blockage may be providedto prevent the step 112A from sliding off its internal support(s) 504.

The ability to extend or retract the steps 112A, 112B is beneficial inthat it permits user's to set the distance between the steps as desired.For example, one user may have different distance preferences thananother user. In addition, the extension/retraction capability of thesteps 112A, 112B allow the side to side machine to accommodate users ofvarious sizes. For example, a larger user may have a wider stance than asmaller user. This is highly beneficial in that it prevents some usersfrom over extending while allowing an increased width to maximizetraining benefits for other users.

The steps 112A, 112B may move freely in one or more embodiments. In suchembodiments, training may be achieved by the user overcoming the forceof gravity in moving his or her legs/body to move the steps in arepeating raising/lowering cycle. In other embodiments, such asdescribed above, the movement of the steps 112A, 112B may be resisted.For example, the sliding mount 512 may provide resistance to themovement of the steps 112A, 112B.

In addition or alternatively, it is contemplated that resistance may beprovided in other ways. For example, the steps 112A, 112B may beweighted. Typically such weighting will be equal or substantially equalbetween the steps 112A, 112B. A resistance to the movement of the steps112A, 112B is provided because some amount of force is required to causethe weights to move when the weights are in a stationary position, suchas the moment when the steps 112A, 112B transitions from being raised tobeing lowered (or vice versa).

Resistance may also be provided by resilient members, such as springs orelastic bands. For instance, as described above, a resilient member maybe attached between a step 112A and its associated platform 104A. Inthis manner, the resilient member may resist movement of the step 112Aat least in one direction. For example, a resilient member may be usedto resist downward motion of the step 112A.

FIG. 6 illustrates another example for providing resistance to themovement of the steps 112A, 112B. As can be seen, a resistance may beapplied to the steps 112A, 112B via a connecting member 152. Forinstance, the connecting member 152 may be supported by a pulley 604that rotates on an axel 616. The pulley 604 may be configured to rotatefreely, or may be configured to resist rotation. When resisting rotationthe pulley 604 provides a resistance to the steps 112A, 112B via theconnecting member 152.

For instance, in FIG. 6, the pulley 604 comprises an extension 612 thatrotates with the pulley. Friction between the extension 612 and anotherstructure of the side to side machine resists rotation of the pulley604. For example, as shown, a strap 608 bears against the extension 612to resist rotation of the pulley 604. It is noted that the amount offorce applied by the strap 608 onto the extension 612 may be adjusted toalter the amount of resistance. For example, tightening the strap 608may increase resistance while loosening the strap decreases resistance.The tension on the strap 608 may be controlled by a user inputelectronically or mechanically coupled to the strap. For instance, thestrap 608 may be connected to a wire, which when pulled, increasestension on the strap. The wire may in turn be connected to a tensionadjuster, such as a rotary knob or a ratcheting mechanism which allows auser to easily increase or decrease tension. In an electronicembodiment, an electronic user input may cause an electrical actuator,motor, or the like to adjust the tension or force.

Other structures may bear on the extension 612 or other portion of thepulley 604 to provide resistance to the rotation of the pulley 604. Forinstance, one or more brake pads or the like may be in contact with theextension 612 or other portion of the pulley 604. The force applied uponthe extension 612 or other portion of the pulley 604 via a brake pad maybe increased to increase resistance and decreased to decreaseresistance. As with the above, the brake pad may be electronically ormechanically coupled to a user input to adjust the force applied by thebrake pad. A magnetic resistance may also be used such as by positioningone or more strong magnets adjacent the pulley 604 or its extension 612.The magnets may be moved towards the pulley 604 to increase resistanceand moved away to decrease resistance such as via a user input. It iscontemplated that resistance to the pulley's rotation may also oralternatively be achieved by increasing or decreasing friction betweenthe axel 616 and the pulley 604, such as by adjusting the size of theaxel relative to the pulley's opening.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary control system. Thecontrol system may be used to adjust resistance of the steps 112A, 112B,the incline of the platforms 104A, 104B, among other things. Inaddition, the control system may be used to control operation of variousaspects of the side to side machine, such as the rate or time at whichthe incline of the platforms 104A, 104B is adjusted. The control systemmay also track or record a user's training, achievements,characteristics (e.g., age, sex, fitness level, strength, endurance, etc. . . ), personal settings, goals, or the like.

The control system may have a variety of configurations. In oneembodiment, the control system may comprise a controller 704 that mayperform one or more operations to provide the functionality of thecontrol system as described herein. The controller 704 may be amicroprocessor, electrical circuit, or the like. In some embodiments,the controller 704 may execute machine readable code fixed on a tangiblemedium, such as a memory 708. The machine readable code may contain oneor more instructions that allow the control system to function asdescribed herein. It is noted that the memory 708 may be read only orread/write memory. In addition, the memory 708 may provide temporary orpermanent data storage. Though shown as part of the controller 704, itis contemplated that the memory 708 may be a separate component in someembodiments.

One or more user inputs 712 may be in communication with the controller704. For example, the side to side machine may comprise one or morecontrol panels or the like having user inputs 712 such as buttons, touchscreens, switches, dials, microphones, and/or cameras. As can be seen,the user inputs 712 allow a user to provide information or input to thecontrol system to operate the side to side machine. For instance one ormore user inputs 712 may be used to increase or decrease the incline ofthe platforms, to program the rate at which the increase or decreaseoccurs, to set a time between reversing the increase or decrease of theincline, to increase or decrease the resistance in moving the steps, toset the minimum and maximum incline for the platforms, or the like.

Feedback may be provided to the user via one or more display(s) 716and/or one or more speaker(s) 720. For instance, an audible or visibleindicator may notify the user that his or her input as been received. Inaddition, such indicators may inform the user of the current state ofthe side to side machine. For instance, the level of resistance, amountof incline, or the like may be presented via the displays 716 orspeakers 720. It is noted that the speakers 720 and displays 716 may beoptional in some embodiments. It is contemplated that videos or musicmay be presented on the speakers 720 and/or displays 716 in someembodiments such as to invigorate a user during training.

The controller 702 may control various motors, actuators, or othermotorized elements of the side to side machine via one or more switches736 or the like. For instance the controller 702 may utilize a powerregulator 736 to turn an actuator 728 on or off that controls theresistance to movement of the steps. In addition, the power regulator736 may be used to turn an elevator 120 on or off to adjust the inclineof the platforms. The power regulator 726 may be used to send varyingamounts of energy to control the speed at which motorized elements ofthe side to side machine operate, or to control the force provided bythe motorized elements.

The controller 704 may be configured to send or to cause to be sentdifferent signals to the actuator 728 and/or elevator 120 to control thedirection in which these elements operate. This may be accomplished bysending signals to the power regulator 736, or by the controller 704itself. In this manner, the elevator 120 may be raised and lowered bydifferent signals and the actuator 728 may increase or decreaseresistance according to the signals provided by the controller 704. Inone embodiment, the controller 704 and/or power regulator 736 maycontrol the polarity of the power being sent to the actuator 728 and/orelevator 720 to control the direction in which these elements operate.

It is contemplated that the control system may comprise one or moresensors 740 in some embodiments. The sensors may receive or detectvarious events or conditions related to training on the side to sidemachine. For example, a heart rate monitor may sense the user's heartrate and report it to the controller 704. The information from thesensors 740 may be interpreted or processed by the controller 704 andpresented on one or more displays 716 or speakers 720. The sensors 740may also detect the rate at which the user is moving the steps, thenumber of times the steps have been moved, the distance the steps havebeen moved, or the like. In addition, the sensors 740 may detect theweight or other characteristic of the user.

It is also contemplated that the control system may communicate withother devices. For example, the control system may include a transceiver724 such as a wired or wireless network interface. The controller 704may utilize the transceiver 724 to communicate information with anexternal device. For example, a record of the user's training time, therate at which the user moves the steps, the number of times the usermoved the steps, the date/time when the user trains, the change inweight of the user, the change in speed or strength of the user, and thelike may be communicated to an external device.

In this way, the user may remotely access his or her training history orrecords for comparison. For example, the user may access trainingrecords remotely via a computing device. Alternatively, the user mayaccess training records via another side to side machine. It iscontemplated that the user's preferences, such as the resistance of thesteps, rate at which the incline changes, period of time between changesin incline, minimum and maximum incline, or the like, may be sharedbetween side to side machines. In this manner, the user's preferencesmay be available at any side to side machine without the user having tomanually enter them.

It is contemplated that the transceiver may also be used to communicatewith the user's personal devices. For example, the user may utilize auser input 712 of the control system to control volume, track changes,or the like on his or her personal media player, such as through a wiredor wireless connection. It is also contemplated that the control systemmay stream or transmit audio to the user through the user's personalmedia player, such as through a wired or wireless transmission.

FIGS. 8A-8E illustrate the side to side machine in use. As can be seenfrom FIG. 8A, a user 804 may step onto the steps 112A, 112B of the sideto side machine. The steps 112A, 112B of the side to side machine mayhave a default configuration when not in use. For instance, the steps112A, 112B may be locked in position when the side to side machine isnot in use. For example, a brake, clamp, or the like may hold theconnecting member 152 between the steps 112A, 112B in position. In thismanner, the steps 112A, 112B may not move when the user first steps ontothe side to side machine. This increases safely when the user is firststepping onto the machine.

Alternatively, the steps 112A, 112B may default to a particular positionwhen not in use. For example, as shown in FIG. 8A, one step 112B may beat a lowest possible position. The user may then step first on the lowerstep 112B and the step on the raised step 112A. The user may keep mostof his or her weight on the lower step 112B. This prevents the steps112A, 112B from moving as the user is first stepping on the machine.This also increases safety. It is noted that the user may move one ofthe steps 112A, 112B to its lowest possible position prior to steppingonto the step (if the step is not already at its lowest possibleposition.

Once the user is on the steps 112A, 112B, the user may begin training bymoving the first step 112A downward. This strengthens and tones theinner and outer muscles of the user's legs which is highly beneficial toimproving the user's lateral strength and movement. As can be seen inFIG. 8B, moving the first step 112A downward shifts the user's legs to amore equal position as the second step 112B moves upward. Where thesteps 112A, 112B are connected by a connecting member, lowering thefirst step 112A pulls the second step 112B upward, such as shown in FIG.8B.

The user may continue the downward motion of the first step 112A as faras the user desires before reversing, or the user may continue thedownward motion until the first step has reached its lowest point. Oncethe downward motion of the first step 112A is complete, such as shown inFIG. 8C, the user may stop or may continue by lowering the second step112B. As can be seen, as the user's body moves to lower the first step112A further, the second step 112B continues moving upward. This mayoccur because the second step 112B is pulled upward by the connectingmember between the second step and the first step. It is noted thatother mechanisms may cause the steps to move upward, such as theresilient members described above.

FIG. 8D illustrates the subsequent lowering of the second step 112B. Ascan be seen, the first step 112A may move upward as the second step 112Bis moved downward. The second step 112B may continue downward until theuser decides to stop or until the second step reaches its lowest point,such as shown in FIG. 8E. The activities shown and described with regardto FIGS. 8A-8E may be repeated as desired to provide the side to sidetraining.

The steps 112A, 112B and platforms 104A, 104B guide the motion of theuser's legs and feet along an incline that is safe for the user's body.Without such guidance there is a greatly increased risk of pulling amuscle or tendon or other bodily injury. Even as the incline is changedthe user's range of motion is controlled by the steps 112A, 112B thusreducing the likelihood of undesirable body motions and injuries. Forexample, the likelihood that the user may overextend is reduced. Inaddition, the minimum and maximum incline may be set for particularusers to prevent overextending or other injuries. Moreover, the lengthof travel along each platform 104A, 104B may be set, also to preventoverextension and other injuries.

FIGS. 8A-8E also illustrate the operation of the platforms 104A, 104Bduring training. As can be seen, the user may move the steps 112A, 112Bwhile the platforms 104A, 104B are at various inclines. For instance,FIGS. 8A-8C illustrate training while the platforms 104A, 104B are at asteep incline, while FIGS. 8D-8E illustrate training while the platforms104A, 104B are at a smaller incline. Though shown at particularinclines, it is noted that the platforms 104A, 104B may provide avariety of inclines, as described above.

The different inclines change the amount particular muscles are used tomove the steps 112A, 112B. Thus, varying the inclines helps ensure thatthe different leg muscles in the user's legs are toned and strengthened.As discussed above, the incline of the platforms 104A, 104B may becontinuously changing as the user is training. Alternatively, theincline may periodically change as the user is training. For example,the incline may increase and decrease in a repeating cycle as the useris training. The user may specify how the elevator of the side to sidemachine will change the incline via the control system. This includesthe speed at which the incline changes. It is contemplated that thecontrol system may provide one or more preset programs for changing theincline, or that the user may set his or her own program for changingthe incline.

It is contemplated that the resistance provided by the steps 112A, 112Bmay also change as the user trains. For example, the user may manuallyset the resistance before or during training. Alternatively, the controlsystem may change the resistance randomly or according to a presetprogram or the user's own program.

Though not shown, it is noted that the side to side machine may supportthe user's upper body while training. For example, as discussed above,the user may grasp one or more hand holds or lean against one or moresupports that extend upward towards the user's upper body. This supportmay allow the user to apply some force to the steps through his or herupper body muscles. For example, the user's arm or torso muscles maystiffen to allow his or her leg muscles to move the steps 112A, 112B. Inthis manner, the user may also experience at least some toning andstrengthening at his or her arm or torso muscles or body structures.

While various embodiments of the invention have been described, it willbe apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that many moreembodiments and implementations are possible that are within the scopeof this invention. In addition, the various features, elements, andembodiments described herein may be claimed or combined in anycombination or arrangement.

What is claimed is:
 1. A side to side machine comprising: two platformshaving a proximal end and a distal end; a pivot at the proximal end ofthe two platforms, the pivot connected to the two platforms to allow thetwo platforms to rotate relative to one another; an elevator attached tothe pivot, the elevator configured to raise and lower the pivot toincline the two platforms varying amounts; two steps, each step mountedto each of the two platforms and configured to move between the proximalend and the distal end of each of the two platforms; and a connectingmember extending between the two steps, wherein the connecting memberpulls one of the two steps upward when the other of the two steps islowered.
 2. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a base.
 3. Theapparatus of claim 2, wherein the base is secured to the floor.
 4. Theapparatus of claim 2, wherein the elevator is attached to the base. 5.The apparatus of claim 2, wherein a support riser is attached to thebase.
 6. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the support riser compriseshandles that are horizontally or vertically adjustable.
 7. The apparatusof claim 1, wherein the elevator is manually powered.
 8. The apparatusof claim 7, wherein the movement of the steps powers the elevator. 9.The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the elevator is motorized.
 10. Theapparatus of claim 1, wherein the elevator comprises an actuator. 11.The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the platforms further comprisespherical or cylindrical structures at the distal ends of saidplatforms.
 12. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a controlsystem.
 13. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the control system isused to adjust the resistance of the steps.
 14. The apparatus of claim11, wherein the control system is used to adjust the incline of theplatforms.
 15. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the control system isused to track the user's timing, achievement or characteristics.
 16. Amethod for training at a side to side apparatus comprising: standing onthe two platforms of the side to side apparatus; engaging at least oneplatform of the side to side apparatus with at least one foot; pushingthe at least one platform downward along the angle of the inclinationagainst a resistance provided by the side to side apparatus; and raisingthe opposite platform upward along the angle of the inclination.